‘Canada’s Got Talent’ won’t return next year due to ‘current economic climate’

TORONTO – After only one season on the air, “Canada’s Got Talent” won’t be back next year.

Citytv has confirmed that the reality talent competition isn’t returning for the 2012-13 season.

The TV network, owned by Rogers, cited the “current economic climate” in a release.

The show launched on March 4 and featured a star-studded judging panel including Hamilton-raised funnyman Martin Short, Grammy-nominated soprano Measha Brueggergosman and songwriter Stephan Moccio.

Manitoba dance troupe Sagkeeng’s Finest was crowned as the show’s inaugural winner on May 4, earning a prize package that included $100,000.

But the show, the latest instalment of the British “Got Talent” franchise, never gained a foothold in the ratings during its two-month run.

“After careful consideration of all factors, including the current economic climate, Citytv has refocused its programming strategy and will not be producing ‘Canada’s Got Talent’ for the 2012-13 season,” Scott Moore, Rogers Media’s president of broadcast, said in a statement.

“Citytv remains extremely proud of ‘Canada’s Got Talent’ and the national platform it provided to showcase our diverse and eclectic homegrown talent from across the country.”